How it works

INSTRUCTIONS:


1. Tutorial step-by-step video

2. Steps 1-10 Photo Instructions

3. Written instructions

4. Things to keep in Mind


1. Tutorial step-by-step Video

4-Minute Tutorial: How to Use the T&G Tool

 

2. Steps 1 - 10 Photo Instructions

 

 

3. Written Instructions

Figure #1

Figure #2

1. Secure the Tool
Align the center of the tool with the center of the rafter and secure it using a #10 × 3½" washer-head wood screw (not included). This step is only needed while installing the first three rows of boards.

2. Reposition as Needed
During those first rows, reposition the tool as your layout requires. After the first three rows are secured, the screw is no longer necessary — simply place the tool between rafters and use it as a clamp to hold boards in place.

3. Understand the Tension
There is built-in tension between the short (top) and long (bottom) panel openings that holds the boards firmly. Simply use your hand (fingers) to open that tension as your sliding the tool into position.

4. Tool Direction

  1. Ceilings: Short end faces the ceiling; long end faces the floor.
  2. Walls: Short end faces the wall; long end faces the installer.

5. Tool top piece panel
Designed to let you rotate the Installation Helper 90 degrees from the rafters when working within 3" of the peak or end. The tool can then be easily slid out once the board is in place. This method applies when rafters are spaced 16" on center or more.

 

4. Things to keep in mind

(1) Each installer at every worksite is responsible for the design layout of the tongue & groove boards. The T&G Installation Helper aids in hanging the boards, not determining the design layout. Re-positioning the tool while securing the first three rows of boards is required and depends on how you layout your boards. In some builds, using 2 T&G tools can be beneficial to the installer. This all depends on the installers skill and needs for the job.

(2) When using the T&G Installation Helper on ceilings, the shorter end always faces the ceiling, and the long end always faces the floor. If used on walls, the shorter end always faces the wall, and the long end always faces the installer.

(3) Secure the T&G Installation Helper using a #10, 3 1/2" washer head wood screw (not included) on the rafter of your choosing. This depends on how your laying out your rows. 

 

Shown, is the T&G installation helper tool screwed into a rafter holding up a 1" x 6" x 12' T&G unsecured board. 

 

The design of the tool allows the boards to be held in place by the boards interlocking design and the tools built in tension allowing you to secure them. Also, the shorter top piece of the tool allows you to turn the tool 90 degrees from the rafters within 3" of the peak or end to allow removal of the tool. This is if the rafters are 16" on center or more.

 

Fully installed ceiling by solo installer using the T&G Installation Helper.

 

Completed boxed beam using the T&G Installation Helper.

 

Completed build of barn by a solo installer using the T&G Installation Helper. This was the inspiration to produce the tool and give others the ability to do solo projects, or speed up projects where a crew could be utilized in other areas not just holding up one end of a board. Not shown, but the T&G Installation Helper was used to secure the wall boards. This barn is two story and used 6500 linear feet of T&G boards all done with a solo installer.

At Lizardi Development, we don't just make tools—we solve jobsite problems. The Installation Helper gives builders the freedom to work smarter, faster, and independently, one board at a time.

We believe every builder whether a professional contractor, handyman, or DIY homeowner should be able to work independently, efficiently, and with confidence. Too many installers waste time, money, and energy waiting for a second set of hands. Our mission is to build smarter tools that solve real jobsite problems, so one person can accomplish more with less effort.

We accomplish this by designing contractor built tools that simplify challenging installations. Every Installation Helper is engineered to support, position, and hold tongue and groove boards in place, allowing installers to keep both hands free to fasten the material. The result is faster installation, greater precision, reduced fatigue, and a safer, more efficient workflow.

We created the Installation Helper a rugged, reusable construction tool that acts as your third hand when installing tongue and groove and similar wood boards on walls and ceilings. Built by a contractor for real-world jobsites, it's designed to help one person do the work of two.

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